University of Tennessee Athletics
2026 Tennessee Rowing Walk-On Tryout Information
» Walk-On Rowing Questionnaire
Tennessee Rowing Walk-On Program
Come Try Rowing With Tennessee
Interested in trying something new, getting a good workout, and meeting people?
The Tennessee Rowing Walk-On Program is a chance for female UT students to learn how to row, train with Division I coaches, and be part of the Tennessee Rowing community.
You do not need any previous rowing experience. We will teach you everything you need to know.
Dates TBA, starting around August 24th
What is the Walk-On Program?
The program is designed for students who want to stay active, try a new sport, and be part of a team !
You'll spend time learning the basics of rowing while also doing strength and conditioning workouts, including HYROX-style fitness challenges.
It's a great way to:
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Learn a new sport
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Get stronger and improve your fitness
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Work with Division I coaches
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Meet other UT students
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Make new friends
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Try something outside of your usual workout routine
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Be part of the Tennessee Rowing community
There is no cost to participate*.
Athletes must complete an athlete physical done by a local clinic* .
Athletes must provide a sickle cell test prior to joining* .
*See FAQs
No Rowing Experience? No Problem.
You don't need to know how to row before joining the program.
We'll teach you the basics and help you get comfortable on the erg, in the boat, and on the water.
We welcome students coming from all different athletic backgrounds, as well as students who simply enjoy working out and want to try something new.
What You'll Do
The program will include a mix of:
Rowing
Learn the fundamentals of rowing and spend time on the water.
Strength & Conditioning
Get stronger and build your fitness through structured workouts.
HYROX-Style Workouts
Take on fun and challenging workouts that combine strength and endurance.
Team Workouts
Train with other students, challenge each other, and have fun!
Learning the Sport
Work directly with our coaches and learn what rowing is all about.
Why Join?
Work With Division I Coaches
You'll have the opportunity to learn from the coaches of the University of Tennessee Women's Rowing program and be a part of a fun environment to workout !
Get a Free Workout
The Walk-On Program gives you a structured way to train and stay active without having to pay for a gym or fitness program.
Meet New People!
Starting college is a great time to meet new people. The Walk-On Program gives you a group to train with, learn with, and spend time with.
Try Something Different
You may have played a sport in high school, gone to the gym, run, done CrossFit, or never really found a sport that you enjoyed.
This is an opportunity to try something completely new.
Who Can Join?
The program is open to the female body of the University of Tennessee students who are interested in rowing and fitness.
You don't need to be an experienced athlete, and you don't need to have any rowing background.
We're looking for students who are:
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Willing to learn
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Consistent and committed
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Ready to work hard
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Positive and supportive of others
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Interested in fitness and trying a new sport
What Happens After I Join?
You'll start by learning the basics of rowing and getting to know the other students in the program.
As you progress, you'll have the opportunity to spend more time rowing, training, and learning about the sport.
For students who discover that they really enjoy rowing and want to pursue it further, there may also be opportunities to continue within the Tennessee Rowing program.
The goal is not to come in already knowing how to row.
The goal is to come in ready to learn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous rowing experience?
No. We will teach you how to row from the beginning.
Do I need to be a high-level athlete?
No. You should be willing to work hard and participate consistently, but you do not need to have a rowing background or be an elite athlete.
Is there a cost?
No. There is no cost to participate in the Walk-On Program. There will be a 100$ fee from the NCAA ELIGIBILITY CENTER to keep working out together after the tryout process!
What kind of workouts will we do?
The program will include rowing, strength and conditioning, erg workouts, and HYROX-style fitness challenges.
Will I get to row on the water?
Yes. A major part of the program is learning how to row and getting comfortable in a boat.
Who will coach us?
You'll work with coaches from the University of Tennessee Women's Rowing program, including our Division I coaching staff.
Do I need to do anything before joining?
Yes! You will need to get a pre athlete physical done by a local clinic. And provide a sickle cell test to participate with this program.
Do I have to become a varsity rower?
No. The program is designed to give you the opportunity to learn rowing, get fit, and be part of a team.
If you fall in love with rowing and want to take it further, we'll talk with you about what opportunities may be available.
Ready to Try Something New?
You don't have to know anything about rowing.
You don't have to know if you'll like it.
Just come try it.
Learn to row.
Get a workout.
Meet new people.
Have some fun.
Be outside !
» Fill Out the Walk-On Questionnaire
Questions?
Email Assistant Coach Violette Legrand at vlegrand@utk.edu.
